Despite the problems in Latvia, there is a range of things that Estonia could learn from its southern neighbour, writes the Estonian newspaper Eesti Paevaleht.

The newspaper’s senior editor Rein Sikk mentions the fact that the Latvians will go to the polling stations in October as the top advantage; while the Estonians will have to deal with the propaganda in winter. According to R. Sikk, there are more opportunities to discuss politics outdoors during the Indian summer, reports LETA.

Moreover, the author praised the Latvian ability to look at elections with humour, as it was proven by the political party Pēdējā partija and their nominee for the prime minister post – Laimes Lācis (The Bear of Happiness).

As regards the second place, Sikk expresses his appreciation of the successfully implemented economic reforms in Latvia, which resulted in quintuple reduction of local governments. At the same time, Estonia has not been able to reach an agreement on similar reforms yet.

The third place in this list has been taken by the major protest campaign, which was organised by the Latvian farmers, while, in the meantime, the Estonian farmers still continue to quarrel to determine who is on whose side.

R. Sikk mentions the significant number of Russian-speaking politicians in the Latvian Parliament as the fourth advantage, which allows the Russian-speaking community to involve more actively in the political life than in Estonia.

The Latvian food chain Lido restaurants have also been acknowledged, since they are very popular among Estonians. Although the Tallinn shopping centre Solaris also has Lido restaurant, yet, Latvian music is not played in it, which is a notable handicap, according to the newspaper’s article.

Moreover, R. Sikk also commends Latvia’s ability to protect its Freedom Monument, which was unveiled in 1935, during the occupation years. «Not to mention Tallinn’s tragedy,» he admits, alluding to the Estonia’s Freedom Monument that was unveiled in 2009, which has already been stricken by various technical problems.

In the list of advantages, the Latvian national airline airBaltic, which controls the airspace of the Baltics, has ranked in the seventh place. The Lithuanians and Estonians can only watch with envy and blame Latvians that they have acted wrongly.

The eighth place has been occupied by the «excellent Latvian beer» and countless small breweries. Besides, the local beer is available in every town shop and cafe throughout Latvia.

In the last but one place ranks the Latvian souvenirs, which can be bought not only in Riga but also in small village shops. «How many Estonian towns offer the possibility to purchase souvenirs that are made in Estonia?» he asks.

The list is concluded with Gotiņa sweets, which are manufactured milk candies that are available in different sorts, as well as the «real ice cream».

Rein Sikk wraps up the advantage listing in the Estonian newspaper Eesti Paevaleht with the following words: «Long live Latvia! Why not? ».